Biography

Switchback Bio
For over two decades, Brian FitzGerald and Martin McCormack, known as Switchback, have entertained crowds with their unique American Roots ~ Celtic Soul blend of music. Brian and Martin play an exciting mix of mandolin, guitar, and bass. Their harmonies have won them comparisons to famous duos, such as the Louvin Brothers, the Everly Brothers, and Simon and Garfunkel. Music Connection Magazine said of Switchback: "The words ‘American Roots & Celtic Soul’ only begin to describe this unusual act, whose vocal prowess is as pure as it is unique...there is no denying the stunning vocal blends that are achieved by this duo."

Their Celtic music is authentically Irish, drawing praise from such traditional players as Matt Malloy of the group the Chieftains. Ireland has taken Switchback to her heart, with performances at art centers throughout the country and appearances on RTE (Raidió Teilifís Éireann). At the same time, their music is modern Celtic, with songs capturing the Irish of today as accurately as the Pogues and singer-songwriters like Christy Moore.

But to pay attention only to the Celtic side of Switchback would be a disservice to the unique American roots music crafted by FitzGerald and McCormack. None other than the Grammy Award-winning producer Lloyd Maines chose to work with Switchback in producing three of their albums and considers the duo one of the most important acts playing Americana music today. Their latest collaboration has resulted in Switchback’s 13th album "Kanoka.” With the soaring pedal steel of Maines along with the boxcar-hopping harmonica of Chicago's own Howard Levy, Switchback has created a musical journey that will make every Midwesterner proud of the heartland and every non-Midwesterner longing for it.

The ability to write songs that touch the soul, and to convey those songs in a manner that brings the most diverse audience together, are what set Switchback apart from other performers. FitzGerald and McCormack are more than entertainers; they are more than songwriters. Joseph Woodruff, director for the Campanile Center for the Arts in Minocqua, WI, sums it up best: "Marty and Brian established a connection with the audience better than anyone else we've had play here. They have such a personable delivery that makes the crowd feel like they are playing to them individually."

In 2013, Switchback continues to make strides in the music world. Their television specials “The Americana Sessions” and “The Celtic Sessions” have aired on PBS stations around the U.S. The band has also been working with Paul Mertens (who arranged the music for “Brian Wilson Reimagines Gershwin”) on orchestral scores for “Kanoka: A Postcard from the Heartland” and “Bolinree: A Celtic Journey” suitable for a 50-chair orchestra.

On top of their usual tour schedule, Switchback regularly presents outreach programs for schools, community events, senior citizen groups, and special needs audiences. They offer outreach programs on Celtic music, songwriting, and music appreciation as well as music residencies.

Unusual, honest, heartfelt, humorous, personable, talented, spiritual, and spirited – these all describe the band Switchback.